Ukrainian Enthusiasts Turn Russian S-70 Okhotnik Drone Remains into Unique Souvenirs

In a surprising twist to modern warfare, fragments of Russia’s cutting-edge S-70 "Okhotnik" (Hunter) combat drone have been repurposed as collectible souvenirs by Ukrainian enthusiasts. The remains of the drone, downed during an ill-fated test flight on October 5, 2024, have sparked widespread interest among collectors and military enthusiasts alike.

The S-70 “Okhotnik”: Russia’s Advanced Combat Drone

The S-70 “Okhotnik” represents one of Russia’s most ambitious unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) projects. Designed as a "loyal wingman" for the Su-57 stealth fighter, the drone is built to conduct coordinated operations, deliver precision-guided munitions, and handle complex combat scenarios. With a wingspan of approximately 65 feet, the flying-wing design emphasizes stealth, speed, and advanced aerodynamics, allowing it to evade radar detection effectively.

The drone is powered by a Saturn AL-31F turbofan engine, granting it speeds up to 1,000 km/h (621 mph) and an operational range exceeding 6,000 kilometers. It boasts a payload capacity of nearly 2,800 kilograms, enabling it to carry a diverse array of weaponry, including guided bombs and air-to-surface missiles.

Despite these impressive specifications, the S-70 remains largely experimental, as evidenced by the October 2024 mishap.

Crash and Controversy

The test flight began at Russia's Akhtubinsk Air Base, over 365 miles from the frontline, aiming to assess the drone's capabilities in conjunction with manned Su-57 aircraft. However, the mission ended in chaos when Russian operators lost control of the UAV. Fearing that the drone might fall into Ukrainian or Western hands, the accompanying Su-57 fighter jet destroyed it mid-flight using an air-to-air missile.

The wreckage, which crashed near Kostyantynivka in Donetsk Oblast, revealed intriguing details. Ukrainian forces recovered components from U.S., German, and Swiss manufacturers embedded within the drone’s systems. This discovery raises questions about Russia's procurement practices and reliance on foreign technologies, despite facing international sanctions.

Additionally, remnants of a UMPK D-30 guided bomb based on the Soviet-era FAB-250 were found at the crash site. This suggests the S-70 was testing its bombing capabilities during the flight.

From Fuselage to Souvenirs

In an innovative project spearheaded by a group called Fuselage Creations, fragments of the drone’s fuselage have been turned into unique keepsakes. The collectibles include small metal pieces engraved with the drone’s specifications and details about its crash. These items are marketed as a testament to Ukraine's resilience and ingenuity in the face of Russian aggression.

The souvenirs not only serve as mementos of modern warfare but also shed light on the vulnerabilities of Russia's advanced weaponry. For Ukraine, they symbolize a small victory in the larger battle for technological and military superiority.

Implications for Russian Defense

The crash of the S-70 raises significant concerns about the reliability of Russia’s next-generation combat systems. While the drone is marketed as a game-changer in aerial warfare, its failure during an operational test highlights unresolved issues in control systems, coordination with manned aircraft, and live combat performance.

The S-70 program, launched in 2017 and developed by the Chkalov Aviation Plant in Novosibirsk, has faced repeated delays and challenges. Although touted as a key component of Russia's future UAV fleet, the platform remains a work in progress with limited operational deployments.

A Reflection of Modern Warfare

The transformation of Russian drone wreckage into souvenirs underscores the intersection of war, technology, and culture. It highlights both the advancements and the vulnerabilities in modern combat systems, as well as the human capacity to find creative responses to adversity.

As the conflict continues, the story of the S-70 Okhotnik serves as a reminder that even the most advanced technologies are not immune to failure—and that such failures can carry symbolic significance far beyond the battlefield.